A headmaster has scrapped his school's prom, saying the end-of-year celebration has become too expensive for parents and creates too much of a distraction for students.

In a letter to parents, Chris Beirne, head of the all-girl Beaulieu School, Jersey, also said there was 'considerable concern' over the use of drugs and alcohol at after-parties.

He added that it was 'no longer reasonable' for staff to be expected to supervise the school event, 'in an era of increasing safeguarding risk to students and the staff themselves'.

It means year 11 pupils sitting their GCSEs next summer will be the final cohort to have a prom.

According to the Jersey Evening Post, the Mr Beirne's letter read: 'The rise of pre- and after- prom parties and the significant focus and distraction this event causes in the academic year, not to mention the growing expense and luxury foisted on parents in the preparation for this event, does not fit into the ethos of our school.

Quoting comments from an unnamed member of staff, the letter added: ‘The worry about alcohol and drug consumption at after-parties is also a considerable concern'.

While the school said it had received 'significant' support, dozens of pupils have joined a Facebook group calling for the decision to be reversed and parents have written to the headmaster.

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One mother suggested a committee could be set up to alleviate the pressure put on staff. She added the pupils deserved a prom 'as a reward for all their hard work'.

Year 11 pupils sitting their GCSEs next summer will be the final cohort to have a prom. Above, Beaulieu school

Mr Bernie added that a review would now take place into how pupils could celebrate when they finish their A-levels.

A statement from Beaulieu School said: 'Since the release of a letter from the headmaster to our parents in relation to the school’s decision not to continue with a prom celebration for Year 11 from 2017, the school has received significant support from our parents in this matter.

'Many are very grateful to the headmaster for remaining firm in his decision and are respectful of the ethos of the school.'